FAQ - Contractor

Q.

How do I determine the PTC rating of a module?

A.

PTC refers to PVUSA Test Conditions, which were developed to test and compare PV systems as part of the PVUSA (Photovoltaic for Utility Scale Applications) project. PTC are 1,000 watts per square meter solar irradiance, 20° C air temperature, and wind speed of 1 meter per second at 10 meters above ground level. PV manufacturers use Standard Test Conditions (STC) to rate their PV products. STC are 1,000 watts per square meter solar irradiance, 25° C cell temperature, air mass equal to 1.5, and ASTM G173-03 standard spectrum. The PTC rating, which is lower than the STC rating, is generally recognized as a more realistic measure of PV output because the test conditions better reflect "real-world" solar and climatic conditions, compared to the STC rating. PTC ratings are DC (direct current) watts.

Module operating temperature increases relative to air temperature when placed in the sun. As the operating temperature increases, the power output decreases (due to the properties of the conversion material - this is true for all solar modules). PTC ratings take this into consideration to a limited degree by calculating the PTC ratings based in part on the specific module characteristic for output vs. temperature (the temperature coefficients). The PTC ratings are different for each module, and typically vary from approximately 87%-92% of the STC rating. A typical decrease in power output is approximately 12% for crystalline-based solar modules. This decreases results in an STC rated 170 watt DC crystalline solar module being PTC rated at approximately 149 Watts DC.
Go Solar California keeps a current list of PTC ratings for many modules. View Details

Q.

Are incentives or rebates available for commercial solar systems?

A.

The federal government and most states currently offer great incentives to offset the cost of a solar installation. These provisions include billions of dollars for federal cash grants, loan guarantees, funding to state programs and more.

On the state level, incentives are available that reduce the cost of the system, reduce the tax burden of the solar customer and more. For a clearinghouse of all incentives available from the federal government and the states, go to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). Your solar installer company will work with your business to ensure maximization of financial incentives.

Q.

How do I determine a module’s efficiency?

A.

Module efficiency is calculated using the following equation: Module efficiency (%) = Module nameplate power rating (W) / [Total module surface area (m²) x 1000 W/m²]
The module’s efficiency can be found on the reverse side of the module’s spec sheet which can be downloaded at the following website: Download

Q.

How do I determine the power that I’ll get from a module (or a system)?

A.

Solar irradiance is the instantaneous intensity of the sun’s power measured with respect to area.
Solar irradiance is commonly expressed in units of watts per square meter (W/m²). Insolation is the total amount of solar energy that reaches the earth’s surface over time. Insolation is commonly expressed as kWh/m²/day or equivalent peak sun hours.
Every location on earth has a different amount of sunlight exposure throughout the year. For example, a northern U.S. city like Boston, MA will have a lower annual average insolation than a desert city like Phoenix, AZ because of climatic differences such as precipitation, fog, humidity and sky condition and distance from the equator. Since solar modules produce power, and resulting energy, when exposed to sunlight, the more insolation a location receives, the more energy will be produced from a module installed at that location.

Recorded insolation data for particular locations is used to help approximate the energy produced by a module, as it is the energy from the sun that is converted to energy from the solar module. The amount of insolation for one particular location differs from day to day. There are multiple insolation data sources that slightly differ from one another. The U.S. Department of Energy and NASA have recorded this data for over 30 years and have calculated insolation data for many locations, which helps predict approximate yearly energy output for that location. One list of insolation data can be downloaded for specific locations, click here.

In addition to the data sets described above, color-coded solar resource maps can also show how insolation varies for different regions of the country. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) provides U.S. solar resource maps here: http://www.nrel.gov/gis/solar.html.
Software programs assist with the calculation of estimated average monthly or yearly photovoltaic system output.
See:
PV-DesignPro
PVsyst
PV Watts v.1: Solar Advisor Model (SAM)

PV manufacturers use Standard Test Conditions, or STC, to measure their PV products. STC are 1,000 watts per square meter solar irradiance, 25° C cell temperature, air mass equal to 1.5, and ASTM G173-03 standard spectrum. These standardized conditions are used as a baseline reference for measuring the electrical characteristics of a photovoltaic module.

Instantaneous power output is relative to the intensity of the light (irradiance) that reaches the solar cells as well as the instantaneous cell temperature. Instantaneous cell temperature is typically 20-30°C higher than ambient temperature when the instantaneous irradiance is 1000 W/m².

The equation for calculating power is as follows: Power (W) = Voltage (V) x Current (A).

The DC current from a module is relative to irradiance. As the irradiance increases, so does the DC current though other factors also have an impact on current. The voltage output from a module is affected by cell temperature. As temperature increases, the voltage output decreases.

This means that for every degree Celsius rise over the STC reference of 25°C, the open circuit voltage will decrease 0.351% from the Voc tested at STC.

Similar to voltage, the power output from a module is also affected by cell temperature. This means that for every degree Celsius of temperature rise over the STC reference of 25°C, the maximum power output will decrease 0.485% from the maximum power tested at STC.

Q.

How should I clean my module(s)?

A.

ecoSolargy’s modules are designed for long life and require very little maintenance. If the angle of the PV module is 5 degrees or more, normal rainfall is usually sufficient to keep the module glass surface clean under most weather conditions. If dirt build-up becomes excessive, clean the glass surface only with a soft cloth using water. If cleaning the back of the module is required, take utmost care not to damage the back side materials. In order to ensure proper operation of the system, please check all wiring connections and the condition of the wire insulation periodically.
ecoSolargy’s solar modules should be rinsed with clean, potable water early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Spraying the array mid-day should be avoided so as not to thermally shock the module glass.

Q.

How do I file a warranty claim?

A.

Warranty service is available by ecoSolargy’s authorized dealers located in the United States.
Call toll free at 1-877-808-4213 to find the location of the nearest ecoSolargy authorized dealer or to obtain a return authorization number and shipping instructions.
Proof of purchase will be required.

WARNING:
Please be aware that there is a serious risk of various types of injury occurring when working around high voltage solar equipment including the risk of electric shock. Never spray water on any wires; all spray should impinge on the front of the modules only.

Do this only at your own risk. The risk of injury is greatly increased when working on a roof. Never attempt to work on a rooftop unless you have appropriate OSHA approved safety precautions in place, including fall protection, ladders or stairways, and personal protective equipment.

Ship prepaid or carry-in your product to ecoSolargy’s authorized warehouse. Be sure to have proof of purchase available. If you ship the product, be sure it is insured and packaged securely. ecoSolargy will not be responsible for the costs of de-installation or reinstallation.

Q.

How do I mount modules?

A.

Modules should be mounted in accordance with the ecoSolargy installation manual that is specific to the module model. Mounting system may be mounted using either the bolt hole on the frame of the module or with a top clamping method (see installation manual). Please note that if using a top clamping method, one must clamp on the long edge of the module in the appropriate location.

Q.

How do I dispose of modules at the end of life?

A.

ecoSolargy recommends that whenever possible, one should recycle the aluminum frame on the module. The frame can be detached by removing the corners of the frame. The remaining material should be disposed of in accordance with your local regulations.

Q.

What degradation should I expect?

A.

Overtime, modules will yield less output for a given set of weather conditions. This is often referred to as degradation and is typically considered on an annual basis. The rate of degradation is affected by module construction technology, cell technology and weather.

Degradation of 0.6 - 0.7% per year is not atypical for crystalline modules. ecoSolargy’s standard warranty addresses degradation for a total of 25 years (from date of sale).

Q.

Can I repair a module? Can I replace the output cables?

A.

ecoSolargy’s PV modules are not user serviceable and replacement parts are not available. The dealer or installer should be contacted for possible warranty consideration.

Q.

Can I get CAD files for the modules?

A.

CAD files are available. If you need CAD files or drawings other than what is available on the data sheets, please contact ecoSolargy.

CAUTION:
The module’s lead cables may be “hot” and carrying current, especially if the module is exposed to light. Please exercise extreme caution to avoid the risk of electric shock. In addition, exercise caution when removing the module’s frame as the glass may be broken.

Removing the frame may expose you to sharp metallic or glass edges.

Q.

Are ecoSolargy’s modules tested for damage due to hail impact?

A.

ecoSolargy does not test for damage due to hail impact. ecoSolargy’s modules for sale in the USA are UL listed (listed to UL 1703). As part of the listing process, the modules are subjected to a series of tests performed by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. One of these tests, the impact test, involves dropping a 2” diameter steel ball weighing 1.18 lbs from a height of 51 inches onto the glass surface of the module and seeing if there is sufficient damage to create a safety hazard.

Some ecoSolargy modules are IEC 61646 certified. The IEC testing protocol includes a test in which balls of ice are shot at the module. IEC certified ecoSolargy modules are tested with 25mm ice balls weighing 7.53 g fired at 23 m/s. ecoSolargy does not warrant the module against breakage from impact.

Q.

What wind speed can the modules withstand?

A.

ecoSolargy’s crystalline modules are approved for a maximum load of 2,400 PA (50 psf). The process of translating the module maximum load rating into a maximum wind speed rating is site specific and involves multiple variables such as the location’s basic wind speed, exposure category, installation height above ground, etc. In general, a specialist engineer is needed to convert wind speed into an accurate mechanical load for a specific installation. To determine your local wind speed requirements, please contact your local authority having jurisdiction. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Standard 7-05 provides a detailed explanation of how to calculate the minimum design wind load for buildings and other structures.

Q.

Where do I find an installation manual?

A.

ecoSolargy’s customers can access installation manuals here: Download

Q.

Where is training offered?

A.

ecoSolargy’s product training program is offered in Irvine, California. For more information on ecoSolargy solar training, please visit contact us

Q.

What certifications or standards do ecoSolargy modules comply with?

A.

ecoSolargy’s modules for sale in the USA and Canada are either listed to Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standard 1703 for flat plate PV modules or the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard 61646. UL 1703 is a safety standard for flat-plate photovoltaic modules. The following website lists the tests conducted for UL 1703 certification.

Additional U.S. specific certifications and approvals include the California Solar Initiative (CSI), the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC). A complete list of ecoSolargy modules conforming to these additional certifications can be found on the agencies’ respective websites:
CSI
FSEC

Q.

What are bypass diodes? What is their purpose?

A.

A bypass diode is used to pass current around, rather than through, a group of photovoltaic cells under certain conditions (current “bypasses” the group of cells).
Bypass diodes are connected in parallel with groups of solar cells to mitigate the effects of a reverse bias condition within the module. Reverse bias is the condition of a device operating at negative (reverse) voltage. A module with cells in reverse bias will continue to pass current, but since the voltage is negative, the module will dissipate power through the cells that are in reverse bias, thereby reducing the amount of output power from the module. Power that is dissipated through the reverse bias cells can cause the cells to heat up. If this condition were to continue, there could be permanent damage to the module. Bypass diodes offer the alternative by allowing current to bypass groups of cells when cells in the circuit are in reverse bias; thereby eliminating the heat buildup and in essence, protecting the module. Bypass diodes allow the rest of the series-connected cells in the source circuit to continue to deliver power, but the source circuit will operate at a lower voltage. When the reverse bias condition stops, the diode no longer allows a bypass for current and the full output of the module is restored. The bypass diodes are located in the module’s junction box and are not user serviceable.

60-cell ecoSolargy modules have 3 internal bypass diodes, each connected to a group of 20 series connected cells.

72-cell ecoSolargy modules have 3 internal bypass diodes, each connected to a group of 24 series connected cells.

Q.

Are ecoSolargy modules compatible with microinverters?

A.

Many of ecoSolargy’s modules are compatible with microinverters. Please contact the microinverter and manufacturer directly for specifications for the microinverter; compare the module’s output specifications and the inverter input specifications, adjusting for the environmental conditions expected at the site to determine compatibility. ecoSolargy does not endorse or approve any specific microinverter products.

FAQ - Business Owners

1. How do I know if solar will work on my business?

ecoSolargy offers more than one way to go solar. A solar system can be installed on many types of rooftops, on the ground, or over a parking lot. With so many options to choose from, you and your ecoSolargy certified installer will decide what’s right for your business by analyzing your site to determine the best system solution. Please review ecoSolargy commercial case studies to understand how other savvy enterprises put solar to work in their businesses.

2. Are incentives or rebates available for commercial solar systems?

The federal government and most states currently offer great incentives to offset the cost of a solar installation. These provisions include billions of dollars for federal cash grants, loan guarantees, funding to state programs and more.
On the state level, incentives are available that reduce the cost of the system, reduce the tax burden on the solar customer and more. For a clearinghouse of all incentives available from the federal government and the states, go to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). Your solar installer company will work with your business to ensure maximization of financial incentives.

3. What is the process for buying a solar system?

Fill out the ecoSolargy Business Owner Request a Quote Form or call ecoSolargy at 1-800-299-2565. We will connect you to an ecoSolargy certified installer who will guide you through the solar installation process.

The first step in the process will be a site assessment, your installer will visit your company to analyze your business’s utility bills and energy usage, and conduct an onsite audit of your site’s physical characteristics.

Next, your installer will provide a detailed proposal laying out the system and financials that maximize your solar energy output and savings. Many installers can consult or provide financing options through national or local institutions. Additionally, your installer will ensure your business is able to maximize rebate and tax incentives.

The third step is the actual installation. All of the ecoSolargy certified installers have extensive experience in commercial applications and can create a turnkey system.

Once your system is up and running, there are many options to allow your company to monitor its system’s performance. Since solar is virtually maintenance free, there are no major maintenance requirements. Many installers do offer both a monitoring and maintenance service to ensure optimal performance.

4. How much does solar cost? Is a solar system cost-effective for my business?

The cost of a system depends on a wide variety of factors including the type of roof, system complexity, geographic location, system size and more. The federal government and several state governments offer generous rebates for purchasers of solar systems. A solar system is an investment that guarantees the cost of electricity for years to come. After the system is purchased, the electricity it generates is essentially free. An ecoSolargy certified installer will analyze your specific electric usage, electricity rate schedule and site to determine what option is the best investment and will produce the highest returns.

5. What are the different financing options for my business to go solar?

There are several options to finance a commercial solar electric system. We can help advise your company on available options and the financial package that best fits your requirements. Beyond purchasing a system outright, there are other financial solutions which are growing in popularity, such as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
PPAs are financial vehicles that enable a company to afford a solar system on their property without outlaying capital. In this financial arrangement, a third-party owns, operates and maintains the solar system for a period of years. Customers then buy the power for an agreed-upon set of terms.

6. How big of a solar electric system do I need?

The size of your system depends on several factors including your company's regular electricity use, space availability for a system and financial preferences. Solar systems can either offset 100% or only a portion of a building’s energy requirements. In most situations, your system will be connected to the utility grid, so even if your solar electric system doesn’t generate all of your building’s electricity, you can still draw from the utility.

7. How can I get an installation estimate?

Please go to http://www.ecosolargy.com/quote-request or for more information call ecoSolargy at 1-877-808-4213 and we will have an ecoSolargy certified installer contact you. Our strong network of more than 200 installers and service sites throughout the U.S. ensures that there is a solar expert close to you, ready to come to your business to determine your energy needs with a free consultation. All you have to do is contact us. We'll do the rest.

8. Why are ecoSolargy products a good fit for my company’s solar system?

From our roots as a solar (PV) manufacturer, we have grown into a comprehensive solar solutions provider. We serve as an all-inclusive renewable resource for planning, financing, building, and maintaining solar energy power systems. ecoSolargy has focused on being at the leading edge of solutions for the solar industry. ecoSolargy provides high quality solar power products to power homes and businesses around the world. This means you have an experienced solar partner you can trust.
ecoSolargy’s industry leadership, quality manufacturing and extensive network of certified installers make converting your business to solar power easier and more feasible than you may have imagined. Our nationwide installer network ensures that there is a solar expert close to you, ready to come to your business to determine your energy needs with a free consultation.
We are determined to provide solar to every roof and continue on the path for improvement of new standards for energy efficiency and environmental awareness.

9. What is your warranty?

We offer a 25-year limited warranty on power output for all modules. ecoSolargy warrants material defects and workmanship for 10 years from the date of purchase. We also warrant power output for 25 years from the date of purchase. ecoSolargy has led the industry pushing the standard solar warranty to progress and cover its products production throughout the entire 25 years.

10. How does using solar electricity help the environment?

Does solar help offset climate change?
Coal-fired electrical power plants are responsible for almost all sulfur dioxide emissions in the U.S. On the other hand, solar electricity produces absolutely no pollution. By using more solar electricity, fewer greenhouse gas-producing power plants need to be built. This is one major step to easing climate change.

11. What is Net Metering?

Typically most commercial solar systems are connected to the utility grid through a meter. This meter tracks the amount of electricity your company’s solar electric system produces and the amount of electricity your building consumes. During sunny days (peak production period) your system may produce more power than your building uses, and your electric meter runs backward as you send electricity back to the utility grid. At night, when your system isn’t producing electricity, you will draw energy from the grid. This process is called net metering. At the end of the month, the utility company will only bill your company if it used more electricity than your system produced.

12. Can I buy solar modules direct from ecoSolargy?

Please visit http://www.ecosolargy.com/contact-us and we will direct you to your best options for purchasing a complete turnkey ecoSolution. Or call ecoSolargy at 1-877-808-4213 and we will walk you through each step to “Turn On Solar.” Our strong network of more than 200 installers and service sites throughout the United States ensures that there is a solar expert close to you, ready to come to your company to determine your energy needs with a free consultation.

13. What are financial options for governmental or non-profit organizations?

Several states, like California, offer higher cash rebates to non-profit and governmental organizations. Some local and state agencies can apply for a variety of loan options with low or no interest. Finally, a Power Purchase Agreement (third-party financing) is another vehicle for different organizations. Check with your ecoSolargy certified installer to learn more about financing options specifically for your industry or business.

14. How long does it take to install a solar system?

Installation time varies greatly, mostly depending on complexity and size of the system.
Small commercial systems can typically be completed in a few short weeks; however, large-scale installation could require one month or longer.

15. Will my building have power in the event of a blackout?

As a safety precaution for electrical workers, your commercial system will lose power during a blackout (unless you install a battery backup system).

16. How will I monitor the system to ensure peak performance?

Several monitoring systems are available that can track your system’s energy output and can produce daily, weekly, monthly and annual data. Your ecoSolargy certified installer will work with you to determine which monitoring system best meets your requirements. Check with your installer to see if they offer a monitoring maintenance service. Service agreements can include cleaning and performance monitoring.

17. Is there maintenance required to keep a solar system operational?

Occasionally, a solar array should be rinsed off with a hose to clear the dust or debris that blocks sunlight and reduces efficiency. That’s about all that’s required. There are no moving parts to wear out and ecoSolargy solar modules are covered under limited power output warranty for 25 years. In fact, there are solar modules installed 40 years ago that are still producing energy today. Check with your installer to see if they offer a maintenance service. Service agreements can include cleaning and performance monitoring.

I have worked with ecoSolargy for the past five years. We have worked together on a wide range of projects, from small residential to medium commercial.

They sell a quality product competitive with those offered by larger companies, but offer the hands-on service of a smaller company. They are a strong competitor in the solar industry, with great potential for growth in the future. I am pleased to recommend their products and services, and I look forward to working with them for many years to come.

Christopher D’Avignon, CEO & founder-Terra Steward, Inc.

I have worked with ecoSolargy on a wide range of projects since the company’s founding in 2009. They have a talented team which focuses on putting the needs of the client first. They are always willing to go the extra mile to make a project a success.

ecoSolargy’s products are outstanding, their customer service excellent and they have a wide range of services available which can be tailored to the needs of each individual client. And, they are both flexible and creative in developing financing solutions to fund projects.

The solar industry is a competitive one, but I’ve come to believe that ecoSolargy is among the best companies in the marketplace. I am happy to endorse them.

Bil Becker

I recently had the opportunity to test solar products offered by ecoSolargy, and was impressed by their high quality. ecoSolargy is a dynamic company, 100% devoted to putting solar on buildings. They are motivated by a desire to helping their clients save money, as well as improving our environment. Every staff member with whom I worked has been cordial as well as knowledgeable. It is my pleasure to offer the company my highest recommendation.

ABOUT US

Mission Statement

ecoSolargy strives to expand the use of renewable energy for a cleaner future through the deployment of reliable, affordable solar solutions.

Background

ecoSolargy is a full-service solar solutions provider headquartered in Irvine, California. The name “ecoSolargy” reflects our mission, combining the words ecology, solar energy, and technology. From our roots as a solar panel (PV) manufacturer, ecoSolargy has grown into a comprehensive solar solutions provider.

We’re here to help you convert your home or business to solar power. It is our guarantee to offer you high-quality solar products at manufacturer-direct prices for any size project, and offer you the expertise you need to complete your solar project. This includes help with planning, financing, building, and maintaining your solar system.

And, if you’re a contractor, project developer, or distributor, we’re here to help you easily and cost-effectively develop solar power strategies and solutions for your enterprise. We value you as a customer, and it is our commitment to always be available to you with outstanding customer service and technical support.

ecoSolargy is Founded

In 2009, ecoSolargy was founded as a solar panel manufacturer to deliver product to an underserved US market. Soon recognizing a void in the solar marketplace, the company began offering inverters and racking systems. Clients were able to get all products they needed at wholesale prices from ecoSolargy.

Utility Division Begins

ecoSolargy began recruiting overseas investors looking to fund utility-scale solar projects in the United States. Acting as a project consultant, ecoSolargy connects investors with utility-scale developers, marking the beginning of the Utility Division in early 2011.

ecoSolargy goes Commercial

In response to the demand of commercial solar projects in Southern California, ecoSolargy launched its Commercial PV Division in 2012.

ecoSolargy Joins HDPV

The HDPV Alliance is an initiative to enable PV project developers, systems integrators, and EPCs to easily identify and source solutions that provide higher performance at a lower cost – the HDPV Advantage. Learn More >

Releases CSR Report

Today, ecoSolargy is a respected full-service solar solutions provider continuing to streamline procurement and innovate new solar technology. In 2014, ecoSolargy released its first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report assessing the company’s impact on the community and environment while committing itself to charitable giving and volunteering.

PRODUCTS

PV Modules, Inverters and Racking

ecoSolargy manufactures a variety of high quality solar modules. Through research and development we design and build modules from components that exceed industry standards for use in solar projects of all sizes. At ecoSolargy our goal is to provide you with tailored solar solutions to save you both time and money. Our solar solutions approach is unique in the marketplace and we are dedicated to helping “turn on” solar energy across the nation.

Features

Features

THE TEAM

Meet the team that proudly stands behind

ecoSolargy

CEO

Alan H. Lee

Alan provides the vision and foundation for the growth and evolution of the company. He founded ecoSolargy in 2009 with the purpose of delivering solar energy to the marketplace to offset an increasing societal carbon footprint.

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Alan earned a B.S. in Environmental Engineering from UC Irvine. His extensive project management experience in the renewable energy and oil & gas sectors provided the foundational skills to launch ecoSolargy. Alan has worked with foreign investors to raise capital for deployment in utility scale solar projects in the US market.

Alan has also partnered in the design and engineering of projects as large as 10MW utilizing ecoSolargy modules. Alan currently serves on the board of Cleantech OC a non-profit organization providing the catalyst to job creation and economic growth in the cleantech industry in Orange County and throughout California.

Alan is active in volunteer activities and in Giving Children Hope a 501c(3) charity.

Director of Commercial PV

Martin Brix

Martin oversees a team responsible for assessing the financial viability of companies adopting solar systems to meet their energy needs. He joined the ecoSolargy team in 2010.

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Martin joined the ecoSolargy team in 2010. Martin earned a B.A. in Anthropology from UCLA and a M.A. in Anthropology from Cal State Fullerton. He has been involved in renewable energy development since 2007.

Before coming to ecoSolargy, he served as Director of Cultural Affairs for Winds of Change, working with Great Plains tribes to help them develop their own utility-scale wind projects.

Martin is an avid woodworker and artisan beer maker.

Vice President of Operations

Paul Bakhoum

Paul's responsibilities include the organization, direction and control of the operational functions of the company.

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He joined the ecoSolargy team in 2009. Prior to joining ecoSolargy Paul worked in the financial services sector for 8 years in both management and operations roles for companies in the mid market sector servicing small and medium enterprises.

CUSTOMER CENTER

Welcome to the customer care center. We hope you will be able to find useful information and tools here to assist you in your project’s success. If there is anything else you need, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to assist you.